LORETTA MAY AUSTIN

Loretta, the second oldest of six siblings, was born to Cleo (Starks) Jeter and John Jeter on March 21, 1945, in Washing She was raised in D.C. and had her formidable education from kindergarten to high school in the D.C. public school system. Loretta grew up with meager means, but her family home was filled with lots of fun and love, and she did not realize her modest upbringing until she was an adult. She recalls that food was always on the table, even if it was navy beans with ham hocs and homemade bread (e.g., hoe cakes)-it was good eating! 

She married Nathaniel Stephen Austin and was blessed with their four beautiful angels, Stephen, Baby Kim, Keith, and Monique (Nutara). The marriage was a challenging chapter in her life. Following its end, at 24, Lorretta courageously moved to San Diego, California, with her three children to pursue a more stable and supportive environment for their future in 1969. 

Upon relocating to San Diego, she faced many difficulties during her first year as a single woman with three young children in the 1960s, including the risk of homelessness. However, she stated, "But my God! How great He is!!!"'God sent Loretta an angel; thankfully, they did not spend one night on the street. When she reflected on these circumstances, she said God kept his arm around her and her precious babies. These events would also inspire her homeless ministry later in life. 

Though her start in San Diego was hard, and she deeply missed the support of her close-knit family, she regarded this experience --and God's grace she felt throughout it—as instrumental in shaping her into the strong and compassionate woman, mother, sister, aunt, grandmother, and friend she would become. Loretta considered it a blessing from God that she was able to raise her three children as a single mother, nurturing them into loving and productive individuals. She also achieved significant professional and personal milestones through determination and faith. Loretta earned an associate's degree in criminal justice and faithfully served in the federal government for 40 years, most of which she spent as a dedicated civilian accountant. Loretta was blessed to own two properties and have had the opportunity to travel the world. A central part of Loretta's life's mission was serving individuals experiencing homelessness. In addition, she opened her home to several foster children over the years, providing them with love, care, and a sense of stability. 

Loretta was a devoted member of Phillips Temple CME Church under the leadership of Pastor Marshall Sharpe for 33 years. She served in numerous ministries, including Sunday School and Children's Church, for over two decades, led the Evangelism Ministry as president, and contributed her time and talents to the church's financial team for 20 years. Loretta was also a dedicated volunteer with the Interfaith Shelter Homeless Ministry, where she was honored with an award for 30 years of service and gave 13 years of compassionate outreach to Father Joe's Villages Homeless Shelter. She also actively participated in the San Diego for Christ Evangelism Ministry, demonstrating her passion for sharing her faith. 

In 2018, Loretta joined House of Hope Community Church under the leadership of Pastor LaVerne Mitchell, where she continued to serve with the same devotion and humility. She was the Sunday morning worship leader and head of the "Make a Difference" Homeless Ministry, serving as a board member and overseeing the finances. Loretta faithfully attended weekly Bible study and prayer meetings. Her legacy of steadfast faith, tireless service, and unwavering compassion will continue to inspire all  who knew and loved her. 

Loretta Austin's blessed life was enriched by devoted family members, close friends, and a supportive church community. She was preceded in death by several beloved family members, including her eldest son, Stephen Victor Austin, eldest daughter, Kim Austin, and her cherished parents. Her legacy continues through her children: Keith Austin (Candi), Nutara Austin, and her daughter-in-law, Stephanie Austin. She is also lovingly remembered by her siblings: Leon Jeter (Mimi), Roland Jeter (Jackie), Vondell Cook (Weldon "Cookie"), Gwen Essex, and Valerie Wright. 

Loretta's enduring spirit lives on through her grandchildren: Tamara Davis (Anthony), Autumn Clemons (Perry), Tylissa Asoro (Brandon), Akili Austin, Ashah Jenkins (Carelton), and Nyale Austin. She is survived by ten great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and countless loved ones she touched deeply. Loretta's life reflected her deep and abiding love for God. In her final wishes, she asked that we not mourn her passing but instead celebrate the fullness and beauty of her life. Her enduring prayer for her family and loved ones is that we come to know the Lord and choose joy with each new day. 

To A Praying Mother

To hands that pray, I say thank you.

Because of your bended knees in the midnight hour,

as twilight deepens into darkness, 

I remain unscathed by the turmoil of this world. 

To hands that pray, I say thank you. 

Because of your bended knees rising with the wings of dawn,

I walk with purpose and the conviction of God's will. 

To hands that pray, I say thank you. 

Because of your bended knees at the height of day,

as sunlight pierces the stillness of the sky, 

I walk in comfort, knowing the hand of God is always with me. 

To hands that pray, I say thank you.

~by Autumn Clemons

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